Cut the drama – love the actors, hate the characters

The girls of Love/Hate have become intimately familiar with the curious perks/hazards of TV notoriety in an age of celebrity obsession (or madness). Charlie Murphy, who plays the downtrodden Siobhan in RTé's hit gangland drama, has spoken of the pitying concern she routinely receives from members of the public. "I have all these old women coming up to me and asking, 'are you okay love'?'' Murphy revealed.

Caoilfhionn Dunne hasn't been so fortunate. Dunne plays Lizzie, the hoodlum who shot Darren – aka Robert Sheehan – at the end of the last series. After the fatal episode was broadcast, the actress experienced a furious backlash from vengeful Sheehan fans. "I still get the occasional words of abuse about it," Dunne said.

A memorable role is every actor's dream, but a well-realised dramatic character should haunt the audience rather than the performer.